Today has been named Melanoma Monday by the American Academy of Dermatology. Malignant melanoma is one of the most common forms of skin cancer, with one in five Americans diagnosed at some point in their lifetime. This statistic is largely due to the damaging effect of the sun. In our Houston, TX climate, it is common to wear open shoes much of the year, which puts our feet at significant risk of developing melanoma.

Too often melanoma is assumed to be something else....like a plantar wart, callus, or just a birthmark. This leads to a delay in identifying and treating the cancer. When it comes to melanoma, early detection is the key!

If a lesion is suspicious, identification is a simple process. A small injection to numb the area, followed by a shave or punch of the lesion will give us all the information we need to ensure you do not have cancer. Thre is no down time, no stitches, and the whole procedure takes about five minutes.

In a matter of days, we will have the results and be able to treat it if necessary. The first step is for you to get it checked! If you have noticed a spot on your foot or ankle that has been changing in size or color, contact Houston podiatrist Dr. Andrew Schneider. We'll be able to see if it is something to be concerned about and give you the piece of mind that you need.

In the mean time...don't forget to use sunscreen!! And don't forget your feet!